Forest Bathing in a Rain Forest

September 8th is FOREST BATHING DAY, a day when people around the world will be connecting with the healing powers of the forest at the same time. Consider inviting a friend or family member who lives in another state or another country to find a certified forest therapy guide near them and to keep you in mind as you both immerse yourself in your local forest. ALL WALKS on all available dates are gentle, mindful strolls on the verdant grounds of the Lyon Arboretum. You'll leave behind the stresses of the world and get in touch with the healing powers of the forest. As we move through about a mile of easy trail, your certified forest therapy guide will offer a series of “invitations” to help you re-connect with nature through your senses.  You'll get to try a tea from a plant endemic to Hawai‘i (said to have been used in ancient times as a love potion), and a unique and delicious cookie made from breadfruit flour and baked by Touch a Heart, an award-winning local nonprofit that provides vocational training for homeless and disadvantaged individuals.  "Forest Bathing" (translated from "shinrin-yoku," an established public health practice in Japan) is a growing global wellness movement backed by 30 years of scientific research on the physical and psychological benefits of immersing yourself in nature. See more, including recent national media coverage on forest bathing at www.forestbathinghi.com. Please bring water, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, a casual backpack to hold your stuff (including a rain jacket), and walking sticks if you need them. I'll provide mats to sit on. For your safety and comfort, recommend wearing close-toed shoes w/ good traction; light-weight long-sleeved shirt & long pants. FAQs   Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event? Minimum age: 16 years old.   What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event? Free parking at Lyon Arboretum. Follow Manoa Road, pass Treetops Restaurant and the parking for Manoa Falls. If there's a parking attendant who stops your car, tell him/her you're going to the Arboretum. Continue up the road (watch for pedestrians on the side of the road!), you'll see a sign for Manoa Falls trailhead, turn left there and into the Arboretum. Go up the winding drive until you're in the parking lot. I'll meet you at the Visitor's Center. If coming as a group, carpooling is encouraged; spaces can sometimes be at a premium. Or go green and take TheBus - #5 Manoa route. Get off at the end of the line at Kumuone St. (tell the driver you're going to the Arboretum or Manoa Falls) and walk for about .5 miles into the valley to the Arboretum. Stay on the sidewalk until the sidewalk ends, then walk on far RIGHT side of road. Once you turn into the Arboretum, follow trail signs to Visitor Center.   How can I contact the organizer with any questions? Feel free to message me on Facebook @forestbathinghi or email forestbathinghi@gmail.com.